Community Emergency Response Team

Developed in response to the need for organized and trained volunteers in the wake of major disasters such as the 1985 Mexico City earthquake, Community Emergency Response Teams (CERTs) function to provide life-saving aid to neighbors and alleviate strain placed on professional emergency services in the immediate aftermath of a disaster. Additionally, CERT members provide emergency preparedness information to neighbors and help to increase the resiliency of the communities in which they live. CERT members are capable of performing a number of emergency actions, including managing utilities, extinguishing small fires, providing basic medical aid, and performing light search and rescue operations. The wide array of experience, knowledge, and training brought together by the individuals who make up CERT has made this program a truly invaluable resource for communities across the nation.

Klamath County CERT

Recognizing the need for trained volunteers to augment rural fire departments, emergency medical services, and local law enforcement agencies, Klamath County began to develop a CERT program in 2015. Since its initial implementation, Klamath County CERT has grown rapidly and over 50 citizens have been trained as CERT members. Today, CERTs can be found in communities across the county, including Chiloquin, Keno, Klamath Falls, and Sprague River. Members of Klamath County CERT are prepared to respond to any number of disasters and emergencies and work in unison with professional fire and law enforcement agencies to protect lives and property. Individuals wishing to learn more about Klamath County CERT are encouraged to visit the Contact Us page.